Sustainable Practices and Circular Economy Approaches for the Valorization of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants (MAPs).

Medicinal and aromatic plants (MAPs) are plants that have various uses for human health, nutrition, and well-being. They are sources of herbal medicines, dietary supplements, cosmetics, fragrances, spices, and other products. However, the production and utilization of MAPs also pose challenges and opportunities for environmental sustainability and economic viability. This work offers a wide-ranging review of the sustainable practices and circular economy approaches for the valorization of MAPs. The review discusses the importance and value of MAPs, as well as the principles and benefits of the circular economy, a sustainable model that aims to minimize waste and make the most of resources. The review identifies and analyzes various circular economy approaches for valorizing MAPs, like resource optimization through sustainable cultivation, waste minimization in harvesting and processing, closed-loop supply chains, product diversification and upcycling, circular design thinking for MAP-based products, recycling and reusing MAP-based waste, eco-certification and consumer awareness, and collaborative networks and knowledge sharing. The review paper provides examples and case studies of successful implementation of these approaches, as well as the challenges and limitations that need to be addressed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]